Laura S. Craig

Advisor: Dr. Margaret Palmer

Previous Education:
B.S. Biology Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, PA

Research Interests:
I am studying in-stream nutrient processing in rapidly urbanizing watersheds. My goal is to identify stream characteristics (hydrological regimes, substrate type, organic matter availability, water quality, etc.) that control nitrate removal in headwater streams. I am also interested in understanding how land-based best management practices (stormwater management) and stream corridor restoration projects can help to reduce loading of nitrogen to downstream ecosystems.

Location of Research:
Upper Potomac (sub-watershed: Lower Monocacy) and Middle Potomac (sub-watersheds: Potomac River-Montgomery County, Little Seneca) Tributary Watersheds, northwest Montgomery County, Maryland

Publications
Craig, L.S., M.A. Palmer, D.C. Richardson, S. Filoso, E.S. Bernhardt, B.P. Bledsoe, M.W. Doyle, P.M. Groffman, B. Hassett, S.S. Kaushal, P.M. Mayer, S.M. Smith, and P.R. Wilcock. 2008. Stream restoration strategies for reducing river nitrogen loads. Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment, DOI: 10.1890/070080, Available on-line at www.frontiersinecology.org

Awards:
2003, 2004, 2005 Howard Hughes Medical Institute Teaching and Learning Fellow
2003-2004 Distinguished Teaching Assistant. Center for Teaching Excellence, University of Maryland, College Park, MD
2003 Allen L. Steinhauer Award for Excellence in Teaching. Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD
2003 Outstanding Teaching Assistant. Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD